AI data centres could undermine UK's emissions goals, BBC finds
Summary
BBC research found that four planned large-scale UK data centres are considering gas-fired power while waiting for grid connections. The sites could require 1.3 gigawatts of power and emit an estimated 4.1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year if they ran continuously at full capacity, raising concerns about the UK's 2050 net-zero goal.Key Facts
- The UK government plans to let data centres generate power on-site when grid connections are unavailable.
- Ofgem says developers are seeking data centre grid connections totaling 72 gigawatts.
- The UK's peak electricity demand last year was 45 gigawatts.
- Some developers have been told that grid upgrades could take up to 10 years.
- Four planned data centres are considering gas-fired power, including three in southern England.
- BBC calculations estimate the four sites could emit 4.1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually at continuous full capacity.
- The government says its Data Centre Covenant requires operators to contribute to energy-system costs, support local communities, create jobs, and protect water supplies.
- Labour MP Toby Perkins said a substantial increase in natural gas use for data centres was not acceptable.
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